🔒 Check It, Lock It, Keep It: Vehicle Crime Prevention Message

Over the month of August, we have seen an increase in reports of theft from vehicles and vehicle interference across Northampton,

vehicle interference is when someone tries vehicle door handles or gains entry to a vehicle, but nothing is stolen.

In many cases, offenders are targeting vehicles that have been left unlocked or insecure or with keys left inside as well as valuables being left on display. This making them an easy target for opportunistic criminals.

How You Can Protect Your Vehicle

✅ Always lock your vehicle, even if leaving it for only a short time.

✅ Double-check that all doors, windows and sunroofs are fully secured.

✅ Remove valuables from your vehicle or keep them out of sight. This includes bags, clothes, phones, wallets, tools, Sat Navs and loose change.

✅ Never leave spare keys inside your vehicle.

✅ Consider purchasing a Faraday bag if you own a keyless entry vehicle. These pouches help block the signal from your key and can prevent criminals from using relay theft devices to gain access to your vehicle.

✅ Park in well-lit areas where possible and consider using additional security devices such as steering wheel locks, alarms or trackers.

With the evenings drawing in and darkness arriving earlier, criminals can take advantage of reduced visibility. Please remain vigilant when parking your vehicle overnight and ensure it is properly secured.

If you have CCTV, doorbell cameras or security lighting, make sure they are working correctly as they can act as a deterrent and help identify offenders.

Reporting Suspicious Activity

If you see anyone acting suspiciously around vehicles, trying door handles, looking into parked cars, or checking for insecure vehicles, please report it to the police on 999 in an emergency or 101 / online  at Report a crime | Northamptonshire Police. Your information could help prevent crime and identify offenders.

By taking a few simple precautions, we can work together to reduce vehicle crime and help keep our community safe. 🚗🔒